FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Patient Related Questions, Answered for You

WHAT IS A PA?

While an excellent, in-depth explanation can be found at: https://www.aapa.org/what-is-a-pa/, in essence, PAs are trained much the same as physician, except on a masters time frame instead of a doctorate. PAs are fully trained & licensed to evaluate patients, diagnose, treat, prescribe, and educate, in much the same manner as a doctor or nurse practitioner. Mandie and Jessica's functional roles are virtually identical to that of a psychiatrist, and they practice under the legal supervision of one, as all psychiatric PAs must.

DO YOU PROVIDE COUNSELING/THERAPY?

While we are trained and qualified to perform basic supportive counseling and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy modalities, if you are looking for a counselor, therapist, or psychologist to perform talk therapy (providers do NOT prescribe), we are more than happy to refer you to several excellent therapists/counselors/psychologists in your area. Studies have shown that patients who combine psychiatric (what we perform) and psychologic (what a therapist, counselor or psychologist performs) care have significantly better treatment outcomes.

HOW CAN I BECOME A PATIENT

Give us a call at 623.321.2221 to speak to Sherri about our availability. We accept all major commercial insurances, but we do not accept Medicare or AHCCCS (Medicaid). We do have a discounted cash rate for such patients who still wish to see us without insurance.

DO YOU HAVE PRESCRIBING POLICIES I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT?

You should know that we do not prescribe medications for patients who are not yet legal patients of record, so we cannot prescribe prior to your initial evaluation.

We also have strict policies regarding controlled, illicit, or illegal substances, as follows:

-We perform random oral drug swab testing on all patients being prescribed or considered for controlled substances. We will also perform random drug testing should a patient's status be concerning for risk of a substance use disorder and appear to clinically compromise the patient's safety, or our safety as prescribing providers.

-Under NO circumstances will we prescribe controlled substances if you are positive at any time for marijuana or certain levels of alcohol, opioids, or other controlled substances, even if these substances are prescribed. PATIENT SAFETY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY!

-Under NO circumstances will we prescribe more than 30 benzodiazepines in a month. This includes medications such as Xanax (alprazolam), Ativan (lorazepam), Valium (diazepam), Klonopin (clonazepam), and any other similar medication. Our goal is not to create vicious, addictive cycles; our goal is to TREAT THE ROOT CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM so that you no longer need daily rescue medications.

Our detailed policy is outlined in your new patient paperwork, as well as posted in our lobby, in a folder on our bookshelves, available to all patients at any time.

DO I HAVE TO TAKE MEDICATION?

Every decision for every patient is made on a case-by-case basis. First, we spend a full hour in your initial evaluation, where the most appropriate diagnoses are discussed, as are treatment options. We often perform extensive blood work to rule out any general medical condition that could be causing/worsening your symptoms.

We are also very holistic in our approach. Don't be surprised if you are "prescribed" a better sleep hygiene regimen, exercise recommendations, nutritional modifications, books and websites to research, referral to a counselor, or even nutraceutical supplements that are available over-the-counter or via prescription, but are not necessarily "medication."

There are some diagnoses that require pharmacologic treatment, due to the greater risk of neglecting to treat a legitimate medical condition. However, if this applies to you, all potential options will be thoroughly and carefully discussed with you, as your treatment plan is an open dialogue; one for you to discuss, understand, and agree with.

HOW CAN I GET MY QUESTION ANSWERED IF IT'S NOT LISTED HERE?

Please give us a call! We are more than happy to help answer any questions you may have, as you ensure that we are a good fit for your personality and your goals. Mandie is notorious for musing patients, "Finding the right provider is just like dating: you don't have to marry the first one you meet!" Whether it's a good therapist, PCP, or psychiatric provider, the "right fit" is of the utmost importance. The more comfort and confidence you have in your providers, the better your treatment outcome will be!Thanks for asking!